FJH Solo Standouts, Book 2: Late Elementary/Early Intermediate Piano Book

A mix of character pieces and shorter dances that feel accessible but never condescending. These solos have personality, you'll hear moments of humor, charm, and genuine musical storytelling rather than technical studies dressed up as melodies.

Piano students at the late elementary to early intermediate stage who are ready for pieces beyond their method book but need something shorter and more immediately engaging than full sonatas. Teachers looking for reliable recital material without the research burden.

• Match the tempo to the character of each piece rather than rushing through. Late elementary pianists often play faster than the music asks, and slowing down often reveals the intended style.
• Have students listen to the pieces before learning them. Hearing the shape and phrasing first builds musicianship faster than note-reading alone.
• Work backward from recital date. Using this book means you can pull a finished solo in a matter of weeks rather than months.
• Assign solos that complement what's happening in the method book. If your student is studying a particular key or rhythm pattern in their lesson material, find a solo that reinforces it.

Pull one or two solos per student as rotating recital pieces throughout the year, or use the book as your go-to source for supplementary material that feels polished enough for performance. Many teachers keep this on the shelf specifically for when a student needs something ready quickly or when motivation dips mid-year.

• Sight-reading passages with changing harmonic textures
• Sustaining musical phrase shapes in simple forms
• Playing with stylistic awareness across different character types
• Balancing melody and accompaniment in both hands
• Building confidence in solo performance through accessible, engaging material